One of the first clubs organized in Sun City Palm Desert, Music Buffs was established to promote the enjoyment and appreciation of music through once-a-month programs held October through March. Membership has always been open to all Sun City Palm Desert residents.
In 1995, the club launched the Les Surlow Sunday Concert Series, which has continued with only a two-year COVID interruption. Mr. Surlow—a Sun City resident with professional ties to the Los Angeles music industry—believed the club could successfully offer high-quality entertainment for all Coachella Valley residents, not just those in Sun City. For many years he booked a wide range of artists; following his passing, the Board of Directors has proudly carried on the series. Past performers include Frankie Avalon, Chubby Checker, Rita Moreno, Tony Orlando, Liz Callaway, The Texas Tenors, Tommy Tune, Lucie Arnaz, Debby Boone, Mickey Dolenz (of The Monkees), John Lloyd Young (Jersey Boys), and Brian Stokes Mitchell.
The series has always aimed to present a diverse range of musical genres. Thanks to its success, Music Buffs has funded venue enhancements at the Mountain View Clubhouse’s Sierra Ballroom, including a grand piano, stage curtains, upgraded sound equipment, and a dressing room.
The Sunday Concert Series offers two performances each date—3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.—on the second Sunday of November, December, January, and March. (To avoid a Super Bowl conflict, the February concert moves to the third Sunday.)
The upcoming 2025–2026 season features:
- Portrait of Aretha Franklin with CeCe Teneal
- An Evening with Judy Collins
- David Burnham Sings Bublé
- Ronstadt Revue with Gesenia Gerena
- Bobby Wilson, Mr. Entertainment.
Open to all Valley residents, the series sells full five-concert packages at two price levels: $200 for Rows A–L and $175 for all other seats.
Ticket information and application is on the next page (page 13).
For additional details, contact Marilyn Townsend at [email protected] or 760-360-2856.
